
The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) is gearing up for its highly anticipated Annual Conference, scheduled to take place at Citadel Complex, Oregun, Ikeja from June 20 to 23, 2023. The conference, which will attract legal professionals and judges from across the country, promises to be a vibrant intellectual gathering featuring distinguished jurists and renowned speakers.
With the theme “Post-Election Nigeria: The Judiciary in the Eye of the Storm,” the conference aims to delve into critical issues surrounding the role of the judiciary in the country’s electoral process. Against the backdrop of ongoing Election Petition tribunals and the importance of upholding justice and fairness, the conference seeks to provide a platform for insightful discussions and thought-provoking exchanges.
The keynote speaker for the conference will be Mr. Femi Falana SAN, a prominent human rights activist renowned for his tireless advocacy and legal expertise. The opening session, chaired by former NBA President Dr. Olisa Agbakoba OON, will feature the esteemed presence of Hon. Justice Amina Augie of the Supreme Court as a guest speaker.
Dignitaries expected to grace the opening ceremony include the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his Abia State counterpart, Dr. Alex Otti. Additionally, senators, House of Representatives members, and other prominent personalities are also anticipated to attend the event.
The technical sessions of the conference will host a lineup of distinguished jurists and speakers who will enrich the discourse with their knowledge and expertise. Leading figures such as Prof. Mike Ozekhome SAN, Prof. Pat Utomi, Mr. Austin Alegeh SAN, Chief J-K Gadzama SAN, Prof. Ernest Ojukwu SAN, Mr. Olumide Akpata, and many others will contribute to the intellectual feast.
NBA-SPIDEL, under the leadership of Dr. M.O. Ubani, views the conference as an opportunity to thoroughly examine the judiciary’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s electoral landscape. With a focus on the pursuit of justice and fair adjudication, the conference aims to highlight the significance of a strong and independent judiciary in upholding democratic values.
During the press conference, Dr. Ubani also seized the occasion to address pressing national issues. He applauded the suspension of the Central Bank Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, and called for a thorough investigation into his alleged role in the mismanagement of the economy. Similarly, he urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and emphasized the importance of respecting the rule of law, human rights, and transparency in governance.
Furthermore, Dr. Ubani expressed concern over the removal of fuel subsidy, acknowledging the hardships faced by Nigerians. While appreciating the government’s efforts to introduce palliatives, he called for more comprehensive economic measures to mitigate the impact of the subsidy removal on the general populace.
As the conference approaches, NBA-SPIDEL extends its gratitude to individuals and organizations that have contributed to its success. Special thanks were given to Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo SAN, former Attorney General of Lagos State, for his support and assistance, as well as to Honorable Justice Kazeem Alogba, the Chief Judge of Lagos State, for his commitment to the conference’s success. The hospitality of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was also acknowledged.
With the vibrant city of Lagos as the backdrop, NBA-SPIDEL eagerly awaits the arrival of
legal professionals from all corners of Nigeria. Promising an intellectually stimulating environment along with exciting social events, the conference offers a unique opportunity to engage, learn, and network in Nigeria’s “Centre of Excellence.”
NBA-SPIDEL Chairman Dr. Monday O. Ubani invites all members of the Bar and Bench to participate in this essential conference and bid him a fond farewell.


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